Malaria is one of the most dangerous infectious diseases in the world, and after decades of progress, the number of cases is rising again. The main problems is that in rural areas, access to accurate diagnostic tools aren’t always available—especially affordable ones that work efficiently. Now that’s set to change after scientists from the University of Glasgow created a cheap, origami-like strip of paper that can accurately detect malaria in 98 percent of cases. Unlike many diagnostic tools which require labs and trained technicians, this paper test only requires a drop of blood to be placed on the paper, which is then folded and warmed up. Then, within an hour, the paper sensor reveals whether or not that person has malaria. Accurate, cheap, and easy-to-use, this origami-like test could help greatly in the fight against malaria.
Origami-like paper sensor diagnoses malaria quickly and easily
More of Today's Solutions
This bike for two lets you pedal through the forest on old train tracks
In an effort to breathe new life into some of America’s historic railway lines, Skunk Train is repurposing unused train tracks as adventurous tour ...
Read MoreClosing the longevity gap: what research reveals about why women live longer
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Across the animal kingdom, females tend to live longer than males, and the same is true for humans. ...
Read MoreCanada sets new methane rules to curb oil and gas emissions by 75 percent by ...
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In a long-anticipated move, Canada has introduced tougher methane regulations for its oil and gas sector, an industry ...
Read MoreWhy turning support into action matters on International Women’s Day
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM International Women’s Day arrives each year with a familiar mix of brightness and gravity. On March 8, communities ...
Read More
